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When Your Child has a Weight Problem

Studies show that one in six young people (ages 6-19) is overweight, and 15% of all children in the U.S. are overweight. With these startling statistics, it’s no wonder parents are becoming more concerned about their children’s weight.

Obesity in children can cause extreme health concerns, like diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, bone problems, and more. Childhood obesity also brings about depression, early puberty and poor self-esteem. These are all serious reasons to be concerned about your child’s weight.

If you are concerned that your child may be obese, you should immediately make a doctor’s appointment. In addition, here are a few simple steps you can take to help manage your child’s weight problem:

- Less television time. Children are spending more and more time in front of the television. The largest cause of inactivity among children is because of television, electronic games and computers. In this technology age, children are spending more time in front of screens, and less outdoors.

Another big no-no is eating in front of the television. Spend time together as a family around the dinner table. Take extra time to make healthy meals together. Get the family involved as a unit to promote a healthier lifestyle.

- Simple exercise. When you say “exercise” to your kids, the reaction you’ll probably get is moans and groans. Make exercise so much fun that they’ll want to exercise.

Include jumping rope, skating and long walks. Even a trip to the zoo gets the whole family out and exercising in a fun way. Think of different approaches to exercise and you’ll figure out even more ways to make it fun for everyone.

- Phase out junk food. Substitute real fruit juice for soft drinks. Offer raw vegetable cuts with a low-fat or fat-free dip, instead of chips and dip. Make eating healthy foods cool for your child.

- Team work. The last thing you want to do is make your child feel isolated or cut off from the rest of the family. Implement your child’s new healthy way of living and eating into the entire family’s lifestyle. Show your child how important they are by setting the standard for them. Doing so will not only make it easier for your child, but will show them that you care about their health.

- Encourage daily. Self-esteem plays a key factor in weight issues, especially among children. Remember to cheer them on every day. Let your child know they’re doing an awesome job. Cheer them on every step of the way.

Keep in mind that your child did not become obese overnight. It is a daily process that requires determination on both your part and your child.